Kathmandu: South Asians for Human Rights (SAHR), a regional network of human rights defenders, mourned the passing of Dr. Devendra Raj Panday, a true South Asian, distinguished civil society leader and a founding member of SAHR, who passed away peacefully on 17 July 2026 at the age of 87. At this time of profound loss, SAHR members extended their deepest condolences to Dr. Panday’s family, friends, colleagues and to all those whose life he touched.
Dr. Panday was a distinguished public intellectual who dedicated his life to strengthening citizen-centred governance in Nepal and made an immense contribution to the country’s democratic transformation. Serving in several senior public positions, he played a pivotal role in advancing the people’s movement for democracy and promoting accountable, transparent, and participatory governance. As the Minister of Finance in the Interim Government of Nepal led by Krishna Prasad Bhattarai, Dr. Panday played a crucial role in steering the country’s transition from the Panchayat system to a multi-party democratic order during the 1990–1991 period. When Nepal faced another constitutional and political crisis following the royal takeover in 2005, Dr. Panday once again emerged as one of the country’s most respected voices for democracy. He helped mobilise civil society, build bridges between political actors, and create the public momentum that culminated in the 2006 People’s Movement.
Dr. Panday’s unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights in Nepal and across the South Asian region is exemplified by his instrumental role, together with other like-minded human rights defenders, in conceptualising and founding networks such as SAHR. He remained an uncompromising advocate for good governance, social justice, and human rights. Throughout his life, he exemplified transparency, integrity, honesty, and moral courage, never hesitating to speak truth to power or to place the interests of the people above personal or political gain.
While acknowledging the profound void left by his passing, SAHR said it remains steadfast in its commitment to carrying forward his vision for the region. They stated that they will continue to uphold the values and principles he championed, strengthen regional solidarity among human rights defenders, and pursue the cause of justice, dignity, and human rights with the same courage, conviction, and unwavering dedication that defined his life and work.
